The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a grant of $1,815,256 to Louisiana Clean Fuels, Inc. This funding is part of the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grants Program and aims to encourage the upgrade or retirement of older diesel engines in favor of cleaner and zero-emission alternatives. The initiative focuses on reducing emissions and improving air quality, with an emphasis on supporting disadvantaged communities facing significant environmental challenges.
"Every community deserves to breathe clean air, but too many communities are still over-burdened by pollution from older diesel equipment," stated EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. He emphasized that the DERA program will play a crucial role in reducing harmful pollution and advancing towards a healthier future.
Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance highlighted the benefits of DERA grants, noting their impact on air quality improvement for workers and others exposed to diesel fumes. "New, cleaner-burning vehicles will keep these benefits coming for years to come," she said.
The EPA has provisionally selected approximately 70 national DERA projects aimed at reducing diesel emissions across various transportation sectors. These include engine replacements and upgrades for school buses, port equipment, and construction machinery. Over half of these projects will focus on transitioning to zero-emission technologies like all-electric school buses and terminal tractors.
Eligible activities under this program involve retrofitting or replacing existing diesel engines with certified configurations that meet EPA and California Air Resources Board standards. Reducing emissions from legacy diesel engines remains a critical challenge due to their higher levels of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions compared to newer models.
The DERA program aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative by prioritizing emissions reductions in areas heavily impacted by health and environmental issues related to diesel fleets.
Further information about the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program can be accessed through the EPA's platforms.
